Barton Institute for Community Action
We support leaders and their communities who are working to develop and foster places for opportunity, connection, and belonging in Metro Denver.
About Barton Institute for Community Action
The Barton Institute for Community Action is a Denver-based nonprofit that incubates, fiscally sponsors, and invests in community-driven organizations and projects that create safe community spaces, strengthen local food systems, and expand civic participation across Metro Denver.
Founded as an institute at the University of Denver and established as a separate 501(c)(3) organization in 2020, Barton focuses on capacity building, fiscal sponsorship, and project support so community leaders can scale locally-rooted solutions in neighborhoods with historical underinvestment.
Notable achievements
Independent 501(c)(3) launch
Spun off from the University of Denver and established as a separate nonprofit organization (operating independently since January 2020) to scale community-facing programs and fiscal sponsorship work.
Major philanthropic seed gift
Originated with a transformational $10 million gift that seeded the Institute’s launch and long-term support for community-driven initiatives in Denver.
Successful partner transitions
Supported multiple partner organizations to grow and become independent or to expand their work — examples include Lifespan Local’s spin-off and opening of Blossom House (late 2024) and the Village Institute’s transition to independent operation in mid‑2025; Barton continues to incubate and seed new projects such as Food Justice NW Aurora.
At a glance
- EIN
- 83-4295300
- Location
- Denver, CO
- Website
- bartoninstitute.org
- On Mahalo since
- November 2025
Is this your organization?
Claim this page to keep it current — add your logo, publish campaigns, and reach the donors and advisors discovering you on Mahalo.
Claim this page